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Interview coaching: Exponent vs. Pathrise

Quick Verdict

Both Exponent and Pathrise are strong options for tech career coaching, with Exponent offering a broader range of specializations and Pathrise providing a more personalized and supportive approach. The choice between them depends on individual needs and preferences, particularly regarding pricing structure and desired level of support.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeExponentPathrise
Coaching SpecializationProduct Management (PM), Engineering Management, Software Engineering (SWE), Data Science, Technical Program Management (TPM), Product Marketing, Business Operations, Strategy rolesTech (Software Engineering, Data Science, Product Management, Product Design, Marketing, Sales, and Strategy & Operations)
Coach Credentials and ExperienceCoaches from top tech companies like Google, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft, Uber, and Apple; senior engineers, product managers, and recruitersCareer Mentors have 3+ years of experience in career coaching or tech recruiting. Curriculum developed by ex-technical recruiters. Mentors are industry experts from top companies.
Personalized Coaching ApproachPersonalized resume feedback, tailored approach to individual needs and career goalsCombines personalized career coaching with software. Weekly 1-on-1 mentorship. Personalized coaching on resumes, interviews, and job search strategy. Mentors help develop soft skills and personal brand through workshops and 1-on-1 mentoring.
Mock Interview Quality and RealismPeer and expert mock interviews, AI-powered mock interviews with AI feedbackMock interviews with feedback and recorded sessions. Behavioral mock interviewing.
Resume and Cover Letter Review ServicesResume review services with feedback from experienced hiring managers and recruitersResume templates and cover letter examples. Feedback on resumes before submission. Mentors assist with resume writing and application strategies. Detailed feedback and guidance on crafting compelling resumes.
Behavioral Question PreparationBehavioral interview course with videos and text, interview question bank with community-sourced responsesPrepares individuals for behavioral interviews, assessing soft skills and company culture fit. Provides a list of common behavioral interview questions and answers.
Technical Interview Preparation (if applicable)Courses, tips, guides, video explanations, practice problems for Software Engineering, Machine Learning, Data Science, System DesignCourses that break down how to answer technical interview questions. Helps fellows tackle machine learning and statistics interviews.
Negotiation CoachingSalary and offer negotiation course, one-on-one negotiation support with negotiation coachesAssists with salary negotiation. Offers data-driven salary negotiation strategies, specific scripts, email templates, and back-channel information about company compensation. Direct support during the negotiation process.
Pricing Structure and PackagesCoaching sessions priced separately, monthly and annual subscription plans for courses, peer mock interviews, and other resourcesIncome Share Agreement (ISA). Free initially, but after securing a job, a percentage of earnings is charged.
Success Rate and Client TestimonialsHelped people land careers at companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon; positive user testimonialsHelped over 2,600 fellows secure jobs. Fellows experience more interviews, improved interview performance, more job offers, and higher salary negotiation outcomes.
Platform Features and ResourcesCourses, mock interviews, interview question database, company guides, community forum, Slack communityCombines personalized career coaching with proprietary software that streamlines the job search process.
Post-Coaching SupportDetailed interview prep articles, community-sourced interview question database, YouTube channel with mock interviews, Slack channelOngoing support and resources even after the initial coaching period to help with career advancement and networking opportunities.

Overall Comparison

Pathrise helped over 2,600 fellows secure jobs. Exponent helped people land careers at companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.

Pros and Cons

Exponent

Pros:
  • Specializes in coaching for various tech roles
  • Coaches have experience at top tech companies
  • Offers personalized resume feedback
  • Provides mock interviews with peers and experts
  • Offers resume review services with detailed feedback
  • Includes behavioral interview preparation with techniques
  • Provides comprehensive technical interview preparation
  • Offers guidance on salary negotiation
  • Offers courses, mock interviews, and a community forum
  • Provides post-coaching support resources
Cons:
  • Does not offer direct cover letter or LinkedIn profile reviews

Pathrise

Pros:
  • Specializes in tech roles
  • Personalized coaching approach
  • Experienced career mentors
  • Comprehensive interview preparation
  • Assistance with salary negotiation
  • Ongoing support and resources
Cons:
  • Pricing structure is an Income Share Agreement (ISA)
  • Exact percentage of ISA not clearly stated online

User Experiences and Feedback